Endicott, NY – A Union-Endicott senior has been chosen as the winner of the New York State Conference of Italian-American Legislators’ Assemblyman James D. Conte Memorial Academic Scholarship. Johnathen Rockwell was nominated by Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo and chosen as a winner from hundreds of applicants from across the state. This is the second-straight year that a constituent from Lupardo’s district has won the award. The Assemblywoman presented the scholarship to Rockwell on Tuesday as part of a “drive-thru” senior awards ceremony at UE High School.

“This scholarship is highly competitive, with students from all parts of the state applying,” said Assemblywoman Lupardo. “Johnathen’s application really stood out. His academic accomplishments alone are impressive, but his involvement in a variety of extracurricular activities and his leadership skills make him a truly special student. I’m proud to have nominated Johnathen and congratulate him on this honor.”

A well-rounded student, Johnathen has participated in clubs, theater, athletics, and volunteer work, all while carrying a 3.9 GPA. From stage manager for school plays, to being a founding member of multiple clubs, to serving as Captain of the Cross Country Track team, Johnathen has demonstrated leadership skills during his high school career. Outside of school, Johnathen has been involved in Boy Scouts since elementary school and this past fall earned the rank of Eagle Scout, scouting’s highest achievement. He has also dedicated time to volunteering with the Special Olympics, Twin Tiers Honor Flight, and Mother Theresa’s Cupboard Food Pantry, among others. Following graduation, Johnathen plans to attend Binghamton University to study Cinema & Creative Writing, working toward a career in screenwriting for films.

Normally, scholarship recipients are recognized at a ceremony at the State Capitol that coincides with Italian-American Day in early June. Due to the ongoing pandemic, this year’s celebration was cancelled. The New York Conference of Italian-American State Legislators is a bipartisan organization of state Assembly and Senate members who celebrate the achievements of Italian-Americans from across the state.